Useful Information for visiting Byron Bay

Read up on things you should know before arriving in Byron Bay.

Phone Numbers

• Emergency: Police, Fire & Ambulance: 000
• International dialing code: +61

Weather

Byron Bay’s subtropical climate means warm summers and mild winters. Typically, more rainfall occurs during the warmer months, but does not last for entire days. The list below outlines the average high and low temperatures for each season.

• Spring (September to November): 15-23C
• Summer (December to February): 20-27C
• Autumn (March to May): 17-24C
• Winter (June to August): 12-20C

Surf and Sun Safety

The Byron Bay and, more generally, Australia has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world so it can be tempting to throw caution to the wind. Always play it safe by swimming between the red and yellow flags in beaches that are patrolled by lifeguards.

Protect your skin from sun damage by following the simple Slip, Slop and Slap rule - Slip on a shirt, Slop on some sunscreen and Slap on a hat.

Resources

Dropbears.com has a host of resources for Byron Bay and Mullumbimby.

Money

Across Australia, the official currency is the Australian dollar. Most establishments accept all major credit cards. If you plan to use travelers cheques, first confirm that the store, restaurant, or hotel accepts them as many do not.

Find ATMs in the heart of Byron Bay or visit one of the following major banks:

• Westpac
  Address: 73 Jonson Street, Byron Bay.
  Ph: 13 20 32

• Bank of Queensland
  Address: 21-25 Fletcher Street, Byron Bay.
  Ph: 02 6639 7600

• NAB
  Address: 57 Jonson Street, Byron Bay.
  Ph: 13 13 14

Find currency exchange bureaus at all three airports servicing Byron Bay or visit one of the following foreign exchange kiosks:

• Byron Foreign Exchange
  Address: 4/47 Jonson Street, Byron Bay.
  Ph: 02 6685 7787

GST

A 10% Goods and Services Tax is added to most items that you purchase and is included in the display price. Visitors to Australia may be issued a refund at the airport for the GST of goods over $300 purchased within 30 days of leaving Australia. For more details, consult the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service.
Ph: 1 300 363 263

Tipping

Tipping is not expected in Australia. However, if you experience really good service and want to show your appreciation, 10% of the bill is an acceptable amount for a tip.

Time Zone

The Standard time zone on the Byron Bay is GMT +10.00 hours. Byron Bay has daylight savings time (one hour ahead) from 2am on the last Sunday in October until 3am on the last Sunday in March.

Bars

The minimum age for the purchase and consumption of alcohol is 18. Minors will not be permitted to enter a bar if not accompanied by an adult.

Smoking

Smoking is prohibited at indoor public places and cigarettes will not be sold to minors.

Medical Services

• North Coast Medical Centre
  Address: 24 Shirley St, Byron Bay.
  Ph: 02 6685 6200
• Byron Bay District Hospital
  Address: Cnr Shirley Street and Wordsworth St, Byron Bay.
  Ph: 02 6685 8666

Visitor Information

Byron Bay Visitor Information Centres provide unbiased information on region and its surrounds. For information during your stay, visit:

• Byron Bay Visitor Information Centre
  Address: 80 Jonson Street, Byron Bay.
  Ph: 02 6680 8558

Byron Bay Accommodations

The Byron Bay caters well to its many visitors. It offers accommodations for every budget and every preference. Search for the option that suits you on Byron Bay’s Visitor Information page.